HAKYU HOSHIN ENGI

HAKYU HOSHIN ENGI, released in 2018, is an anime series that allows audiences across generations to plunge into an engrossing world that seamlessly combines elements of adventure, fantasy, and history. Based on Ryu Fujisaki's manga of the same name, the show is a reincarnation of a 1999 anime but with a modern twist, demonstrating a respect for history while cleverly innovating for current audiences.

The series is instilled with Taoist ideologies and offers a narrative derived from the Chinese literary classic 'Fengshen Yanyi' also known as 'Investiture of the Gods', but with a creative spark that completely reimagines its source material. The premise revolves around a timeless battle between gods and humans, positioning Taikobo, a young 'Houshi' (meaning ‘Fangshi’ or ‘priest’ in Japanese) from Kun Lun, as the central protagonist against the oppressive reign of Dakki, the fox-spirit queen of the In dynasty.

Taikobo, who is part of an elite group of spiritual beings known as Sennin, is given a mission to seal away the 365 renegade spiritual anomalies situated around China, who disrupt peace and harmony with their power. This venture, known as the 'Hoshin Project', unfolds within a broad scope of colorful settings, where Taikobo granulates intriguing conflicts, puzzles, political plays, and various tests of bravery, wit, and virtue.

Using his 'Dashinben', a magical sacred weapon shaped like a rod, Taikobo confronts several mythical creatures, encounters legendary heroes, and explores the richness of ancient Chinese mythology. This quest, though laborious, has the dual purpose of restoring the balance of power to the mundane and spiritual worlds and providing him with the opportunity to avenge the destruction of his home and people.

HAKYU HOSHIN ENGI drastically explores the nonlinear narrative, presenting an array of characters with interconnected backstories and motivations. Each character contributes uniquely to the plot's progression, offering a refreshing perspective and enriching the overall storyline. Their astronomical numbers and distinctive personalities often lead to intricate subplots that parallel with the main narrative, creating a layered universe that’s rich in history and culture.

The animation style employed in HAKYU HOSHIN ENGI, an eclectic fusion of old and new anime aesthetics, serves as a visual delight for viewers. The high-intensity fight sequences are rendered with opulent detail, offering a perfect balance of strategic intellectual battles and raw power clashes. The backgrounds are grandiose, reflecting the magnificence of imperial China’s architecture, landscapes, and mythical locations.

For audiences interested in the narrative strength of the series, the musical score will not disappoint. The soundtracks are diverse, varying from tranquil and soulful tunes that heighten emotional scenes to dynamic and high-energy rhythms that intensify thrilling battle sequences. This accompanying music becomes an integral part of the rich tapestry of the series, successfully driving the narrative forward and immersing the audience in the textured world of the series.

HAKYU HOSHIN ENGI also effectively uses humor, throughout its run, providing light-hearted moments that brace the audience for the relentless humanitarian crises and politics of power the show explores. These comedic subplots solidify the viewer's connection to the characters, rendering them more relatable and two-dimensional.

While indulging in its grandeur and spectacle, HAKYU HOSHIN ENGI also delves into broader philosophical queries surrounding notions of power, religion, spirituality, and humanism. The series is filled with multifaceted conversations on ethics, morality, and the inherent values that define good and evil, exposing viewers to varying perspectives and encouraging critical thinking.

HAKYU HOSHIN ENGI's strong narrative, vibrant characters, impressive animation, immersive music, intelligent humor, and astute exploration of complex themes make it a compelling watch. This show is an extraordinary journey that allows its viewers to navigate the intricate maze of the human condition in the face of adversity, transforming this mythical tale into an exploration of humanity that transcends the confines of time and space. However, what truly makes this show a triumph is its ability to entertain while stimulating thought, thus appealing to both the casual viewer and the intellectual observer.